The decision whether to proceed through the straits depends on: The Insurers. The Insurers may provide War Cover, but the rate may render the passage uneconomic. Not everything that passes through is a tanker. The UAE has large ports where cargos are unloaded, split, reloaded for shipment to East Africa. Some Insurers will refuse to provide cover, making the decision moot. Obviously the ship owner has a role, but he is guided by the availability of insurance and the policy of the Flag State Flag states may prohibit, restrict, warn. India has banned all Indian seafarers from transecting the Straits. The United States has warned all US flagged vessels to stay clear of the area; that effectively means a ban, because its unlikely an insurer will issue cover against country advice. Its the same as with tourist travel insurance; you probably won't get travel insurance cover right now going to Iran. Australia, UK, Germany and France have issued warnings but not precautions. About 1 in 10 seafarers are Indian, but Indians have a disproportionate presence in international shipping especially on bulk carriers and tankers. Moreover, about 60% of vessels normally plying the Straits will have at least one India bridge officer. As they are bridge officers, while not impossible, it is a bit harder to find replacements. So the decision to proceed is complex, a combination of economic and political will.
